SpaghettiOs and Sausage Soup

Why You’ll Love SpaghettiOs and Sausage Soup Recipe

This soup is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. The browned Italian sausage creates a rich, savory base, while the tomato paste, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan rind add layers of deep flavor to the broth.

You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to make a restaurant-quality soup that is filling enough for dinner. The small ring-shaped pasta makes every spoonful fun and nostalgic, while the kale adds freshness and balance.

This recipe is also easy to customize. You can adjust the spice level, swap the greens, or add more broth depending on how you like your soup. It is a family-friendly meal that works well for busy evenings, meal prep, or cozy weekends at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• Butter
• Medium onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato paste
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Dried oregano
• Fine sea salt
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Parmesan rind
• Anelli siciliani pasta or another small pasta shape
• Kale, with ribs removed and chopped
• Fresh lemon juice (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions

1. Brown the sausage. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. If there is excess grease, carefully drain some, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the aromatics. Add butter and chopped onion to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Build the flavor base. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano, and salt. Cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to lightly caramelize the tomato paste and enhance its flavor.
4. Add the broth. Pour in 6 cups of broth and add the Parmesan rind. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and allow the flavors to combine.
5. Cook the pasta. Add the anelli siciliani pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta reaches an al dente texture. Add more broth as needed to reach your preferred soup consistency.
6. Add the kale. Stir in the chopped kale and cook for 3–5 minutes until it becomes tender and wilted.
7. Finish the soup. Remove and discard the Parmesan rind. Add a splash of fresh lemon juice if desired to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. Serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.

• Prep time: About 15 minutes
• Cook time: About 20 minutes
• Total time: About 35 minutes

Variations

• Use a different sausage: Try chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or a vegetarian sausage alternative for a lighter version.
• Change the greens: Substitute kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or another leafy green.
• Make it extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a little grated Parmesan at the end for a richer soup.
• Add more vegetables: Carrots, celery, zucchini, or mushrooms can add extra flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust the spice: Use spicy Italian sausage and additional red pepper flakes for more heat, or leave them out for a milder soup.
• Try different pasta: Small shells, ditalini, macaroni, or other small pasta shapes work well if anelli siciliani is unavailable.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover SpaghettiOs and Sausage Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Because pasta continues to absorb liquid as it sits, the soup may become thicker after refrigeration. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to your preferred consistency.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid boiling for too long, as the pasta can become overly soft.

FAQs

Can I make SpaghettiOs and Sausage Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. For the best texture, you can also cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating if you plan to store it for several days.

What type of pasta works best for this soup?

Anelli siciliani is ideal because its small ring shape resembles classic SpaghettiOs, but other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or macaroni work well too.

Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild sausage?

Yes. Spicy Italian sausage adds extra heat and flavor. You can also adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but the pasta texture may soften after freezing and thawing. For the best results, freeze the soup without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

What can I use instead of a Parmesan rind?

If you do not have a Parmesan rind, you can add extra grated Parmesan cheese while serving or stir some into the soup near the end of cooking for added flavor.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or extra vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I use spinach instead of kale?

Yes. Spinach is a great substitute and cooks faster. Add it during the final minute or two of cooking until wilted.

Why does my soup become thick after sitting?

The pasta absorbs broth over time, causing the soup to thicken. Simply add more broth or water when reheating to restore the desired consistency.

Can I make this soup less spicy?

Absolutely. Use mild Italian sausage, reduce or skip the crushed red pepper flakes, and adjust the seasoning to your taste.

What should I serve with SpaghettiOs and Sausage Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

SpaghettiOs and Sausage Soup is a comforting, flavorful meal that brings together savory sausage, tender pasta, rich tomato broth, and fresh greens in every bite. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, it is a satisfying recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or whenever you are craving a warm bowl of homemade soup.